North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

What type of bleeding is characterized by bright red blood that spurts from a wound?

1. Capillary bleeding

2. Venous bleeding

3. Arterial bleeding

4. Hemorrhagic bleeding

The correct answer is: Arterial bleeding

Arterial bleeding is characterized by bright red blood that spurts from a wound. This type of bleeding is typically more severe and can occur when an artery is damaged. The blood is oxygenated, which gives it a bright red color, and the spurting occurs due to the pressure exerted by the heartbeat, propelling the blood in rhythmic bursts. This is in contrast to capillary bleeding, which involves oozing of blood from smaller blood vessels and usually appears dark red due to a lower oxygen content. Venous bleeding tends to flow steadily and is darker in color, as it involves deoxygenated blood returning to the heart. Hemorrhagic bleeding is a broader term that encompasses significant blood loss from any type, without specifying the characteristics of the blood flow or color. Understanding these distinctions is important for effective first aid and response in emergency situations.